Methyl Ricinoleate
Manufactured by Nova Industries
Nova Industries manufactures high-purity Methyl Ricinoleate, a versatile fatty ester produced via the transesterification of Castor Oil with Methanol.
Unlike the viscous parent oil, Methyl Ricinoleate is a low-viscosity fluid that retains the unique hydroxyl functionality ($-\text{OH}$) and unsaturation of the ricinoleic chain. This unique structure makes it an exceptional plasticizer, a lubricity enhancer for bio-fuels, and the critical feedstock for the production of Nylon-11 precursors.1
1. Production & Chemistry
Methyl Ricinoleate is the “monomer” form of Castor Oil.
- Process: Castor Oil (Triglyceride) is reacted with Methanol in the presence of a catalyst (Transesterification).2
- Yield: This process splits the glycerol backbone, yielding Methyl Ricinoleate and Glycerin.
- Significance: By removing the glycerol, we drastically reduce viscosity while maintaining the chemical reactivity of the 12-hydroxy group and the 9-10 double bond.
2. Key Industrial Applications
Fuel Additives (Biodiesel & Lubricity)
- Lubricity Improver: With the advent of Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD), engines often suffer from wear due to lack of lubrication.3 Methyl Ricinoleate is a premier Biodiesel Additive.4 Its hydroxyl group allows it to adhere to metal surfaces, providing superior lubricity even at low treat rates (ppm levels).5
- Clean Combustion: It burns cleanly in truck and tractor engines, reducing particulate emissions compared to standard petroleum diesel.6
Chemical Synthesis (The Cracking Feedstock)
- Pyrolysis Precursor: Methyl Ricinoleate is the preferred raw material for high-temperature pyrolysis. When cracked, it yields Undecylenic Acid/Methyl Undecylenate (for Nylon-11) and Heptaldehyde (for Fragrances) with higher purity than cracking whole castor oil.
Cosmetics & Flavors
- Aroma Synthesis: Certain microorganisms can biotransform Methyl Ricinoleate into 7$\gamma$-Decalactone, a high-value aroma compound with a creamy peach/coconut profile.8
- Personal Care: Used as a non-oily emollient and solvent in cosmetics and toiletries.9
Polymers & Plastics
- Plasticizer: Functions as a low-temperature plasticizer for rubber and cellulosic resins, imparting flexibility without exudation.10
3. Technical Specifications (TDS)
Nova Industries supplies this product in bulk for industrial and synthesis applications.
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
| Product Name | Methyl Ricinoleate | — |
| Synonyms | Castor Oil Methyl Ester, Methyl 12-Hydroxy-9-Octadecenoate | — |
| CAS Number | 141-24-2 | — |
| Formula | $C_{19}H_{36}O_3$ | — |
| Appearance | Clear Yellow Liquid | Visual |
| Acid Value | 2.0 mg KOH/g Max | ISO 660 |
| Saponification Value | 175 – 185 mg KOH/g | ISO 3657 |
| Iodine Value | 82 – 90 | ISO 3961 |
| Hydroxyl Value | 160 – 170 | ISO 4326 |
| Moisture | 0.2% Max | Karl Fischer |
| Viscosity @ 25°C | 20 – 30 cP (Low Viscosity) | ASTM D445 |
| Specific Gravity | 0.920 – 0.925 | — |
Packaging & Storage
- Packaging: 190 Kg Steel Drums / 200 Kg HDPE Drums / ISO Tanks / Bulk Tankers.11
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Ensure containers are sealed to prevent moisture absorption (the product is slightly hygroscopic due to the hydroxyl group).
For Fuel Additives & Synthesis:
Nova Industries
Website: https://novaind.in/